People say that life is like a marathon, not a sprint. I believe a students' pre-kindergarten through 12th grade education is similar—it's a marathon, not a sprint. As students evolve during their educational careers, they are taught to leverage strengths, use specific strategies that often lead to success, and internalize their learning.
One thing I've learned about marathons is that, while every participant aims for the finish line, participants use different approaches, paces, and supports. Similarly, all students in preK–12 systems are aiming toward the finish line of graduating high school college-ready. In order to make the marathon of preK–12 education a success for each student, systems that support personalized learning are essential within today's learning landscape. Personalized, competency-based learning environments allow students to learn different strategies for success, transition between walking and running as appropriate, and leverage various tools that help them internalize learning.
History repeats itself. While there may not be a study that mirrors the personalized learning system you're considering, there are identifiable trends found in studies related to implementing systemic change, competency-based learning, and innovative reform.
I've learned that, in order to most effectively support personalized learning opportunities, leaders need to take a systemic approach that honors past research. Here is an infographic (best viewed in Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox) that compiles trends from years of research and my experiences with schools and districts around systemic change.
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